Movable Nozzle Sensor Cleaning Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
On-board sensor cleaning devices obstruct sensing performance by positioning nozzles directly opposite the optical surface, interfering with the sensor's operation.
Innovation Solution
The device features a movable nozzle with an ejection port that pivots outside the sensor's sensing range, allowing fluid to be ejected towards the optical surface without obstructing the sensor's view, using a pivot mechanism driven by a motor and speed reduction system to ensure continuous cleaning without interrupting the sensor's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the nozzle is disposed opposite the optical surface to eject liquid for cleaning, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the nozzle obstructs the sensor's sensing operation
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is repositioned from a direct opposing position to a lateral position beside the optical surface. The ejection axis is oriented at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the optical surface, allowing liquid to be ejected onto the surface without the nozzle being in the sensor's direct sensing path. This dimensional repositioning resolves the contradiction by maintaining cleaning effectiveness while eliminating sensing obstruction.
2Area of stationary object
If the nozzle moves along the optical surface to clean different areas, then cleaning coverage is improved, but the nozzle may enter the sensing range and interfere with sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle moves in a lateral direction parallel to the optical surface rather than directly along the sensing axis. By changing the movement dimension from axial (toward/away from sensor) to lateral (beside the sensor), the nozzle can cover the entire optical surface area while remaining outside the sensing range at all times.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle is positioned at different lateral locations to clean different areas of the optical surface. Each local position of the nozzle is optimized to eject liquid onto a specific region of the optical surface without entering the central sensing zone, allowing comprehensive cleaning while preserving sensing functionality.
3Manufacturing precision
If the ejection port is positioned close to the optical surface for precise cleaning, then cleaning precision is improved, but the nozzle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of positioning the ejection port directly opposite the optical surface (requiring precise alignment mechanisms), the ejection port is positioned laterally with an angled ejection axis. This approach achieves precise cleaning through geometric positioning rather than complex alignment mechanisms, reducing structural complexity while maintaining cleaning precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design minimizes interference with the sensor's operation while ensuring effective cleaning of the optical surface by positioning the nozzle outside the sensing range and maintaining continuous fluid ejection, enhancing cleaning efficiency and reducing the risk of mechanical complications.
Implementation Method 1
an ejection port that ejects fluid toward the sensing surface
Data Source
AI summary
An on-board sensor cleaning device is provided for an on-board sensor including a sensing surface. The on-board sensor cleaning device includes an ejection port that ejects fluid toward the sensing surface when the ejection port is disposed outside a sensing range of the on-board sensor. The on-board sensor cleaning device further includes a movable nozzle configured to move the ejection port so that a position of an ejection axis of the ejection port changes.